New York State Division of Consumer Protection

Overview (CAP Outreach) The Division of Consumer Protection is committed to addressing consumer marketplace concerns through its Consumer Services Unit. The Consumer Services Unit operates two programs, Consumer Assistance and Outreach and Education. The Consumer Assistance Program receives complaints of consumers, attempts to mediate such complaints where appropriate, and refers complaints to the appropriate unit of the department, or federal, state, or local agency authorized by law for appropriate action on such complaints. When applicable, the Consumer Assistance Program will refer complaints to the appropriate state, federal or local agency authorized by law to act. The Consumer Assistance Program also operates the State's Identity Theft Prevention and Mitigation Program to educate and assist victims of identity theft. The Outreach and Education Program provides consumers with comprehensive, clear educational materials and guidance to assist them in implementing best consumer practices in the marketplace. The Outreach and Education Program informs, educates and empowers consumers through live outreach presentations, rich consumer education resources, and timely social media consumer information campaigns.